North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reaffirmed his support for Russia's war in Ukraine, calling it a "holy war." State media showed touching scenes from the unveiling ceremony of a memorial honoring North Korean soldiers who sacrificed their lives on the battlefield. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a letter commending the bravery of the North Korean army.
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that Kim Jong Un, Supreme Leader of North Korea, firmly reiterated his support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine, pledging to help Russia achieve victory in what he termed a "holy war."
During a reception for Russian Defense Minister Andrey Belousov on Sunday, Kim Jong Un stated that North Korea would "fully support the policies of the Russian Federation as before to protect sovereignty over territory and national security interests." He expressed confidence that the Russian military and people would surely win this just war.
Additionally, both sides discussed enhancing deep military cooperation, with Russia expressing readiness to sign a long-term cooperation plan covering 2027 to 2031.
A key highlight of the visit was the grand opening of a memorial honoring North Korean soldiers who died fighting in Ukraine. The ceremony was attended by Kim Jong Un, Andrey Belousov, and Vyacheslav Volodin, Chairman of the Russian State Duma. The event featured a concert, fireworks, and an air force flying display.
North Korean state media reported that attendees were deeply moved by accounts of "fierce battles" and "heroic suicide bombings" by young soldiers who chose self-sacrifice without hesitation. Seoul-based estimates suggest about 2,000 North Korean soldiers have died in the Ukraine war. Reports indicate these troops were ordered to commit suicide if cornered to avoid capture as prisoners of war.
Kim also praised the "excellent results" in recapturing territory in Russia's Kursk region, where North Korean troops have been deployed since mid-2024 to help block Ukrainian counterattacks. Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a letter to Kim praising the "courage and utmost loyalty" of the North Korean forces.
Currently, the cooperation between the two countries is closely watched internationally, especially after signing a military treaty in 2024 obliging immediate mutual military aid if either is attacked. Analysts note that in exchange for sending personnel and weapons, Moscow has provided Pyongyang with financial aid, military technology, food, and energy to sustain North Korea's economy, which is isolated by the international community.
,AFP